The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) announced the five shortlisted artists for the seventh edition of the Ithra Art Prize, which celebrates artists from or based in the 22 Arab countries.
Recognized as one of the most distinguished honors in the Middle East, the Prize is dedicated to empowering artists, fostering innovation, and deepening cultural dialogue across the Arab world.
The shortlisted artists are Aseel AlYaqoub (Kuwait), Bady Dalloul (Syria), Heba Y. Amin (Egypt), Ala Younis (Jordan), and Jawad Al Malhi (Palestine), SPA reported.
Head of Ithra’s Museum Farah Abushullaih said: “The development and expansion of the Ithra Art Prize since its launch have established it as an important platform for artistic expression.
This year’s shortlist reflects the incredible diversity, creativity, and critical thought shaping contemporary art in the Arab world. The open call received more than 500 artistic submissions, which underwent an initial review process before a selected group of works was evaluated by the jury.”
She added that the award, in its current edition, is witnessing an expansion in scope compared to previous years, as the judging panel is providing production grants to the five finalists, with their works to be showcased in a dedicated exhibition at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) during the spring of 2026.
